Sunday, November 15, 2009

Topic 17: Show me the Money!

One of the greatest problems with technology in the classroom is how to fund it. I know that personally I will learn of all these amazing programs and lesson plans that incorporate technology but become very discouraged when I realize that I cannot do them because of lack of resources. There are numerous ways to get technology into the classroom, and while many resources are free, there are still some things that you have to have. For example, my elementary school is one of the largest in my district. We have 6 sections in almost every grade level and yet we share ONE digital camera between the entire school.

I have found that grants are my friend. I have written numerous grants to receive extra resources for my classroom. I have receieved a class set of flash drives, a digital tablet, and a bunch of reading resources. I am always on the look out for new companies and opportunities to apply for items I need in my classroom...especially technology.

My favorite and most used grant company is Donors Choose. It is a non-profit organization that works to connect companies and private individuals willing to donate money with teachers who need help in their classroom. They cooperate with several companies in offering supplies. Basically anything that you could possibly need can be found in their supply database. Then anyone wanting to donate can read about your class, what you are asking for , and donate money right there on the website in a safe and secure manner.

Here is a website that lists numerous grants that are available to teachers:
Big Deal Book of Technology
Teachers Count
>>>Entire list of websites to search

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